Australia Awards Scholarships – Bangladesh
Guidelines for developing a research proposal
Preparing a research proposal
These guidelines are for applicants applying for Masters by research studies. Applicants must include a research proposal of not more than 1250 words with the application. This is to be uploaded on OASIS at
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Outline of a research proposal
1. Research title
In no more than 15-30 words, provide a descriptive title for the proposal.
2. Synopsis of research proposal
In no more than 50-100 words, write a short synopsis of the overall research project.
3. Research objectives
In no more than 50-100 words, describe the objective(s) of the research and the key question(s) the research will explore. Make sure questions are clear, unambiguous and focused.
4. Rationale and expected outcomes
In no more than 100-150 words explain how the research proposal:
•addresses a knowledge gap in the field of study
•is significant and relevant for your country.
Outline discussions with a potential university supervisor and any other key stakeholders about the proposed research ideas.
5. Relevance to priority areas
In no more than 50-100 words, outline the importance of the research to one of the priority sectors for Intake 2015: Health, Education and Sustainable Economic Development
6. Literature review
In no more than 100-200 words, outline research undertaken in the field of study and assess knowledge gap and its significance to development of your country. Attach references as an appendix.
7. Research methodology
In no more than 100-200 words, review any relevant research literature and describe the research methods to be used (such as theoretical basis, tools and techniques of analysis and the stages of the research). Innovative and cost-effective approaches will be favourably considered. Whereappropriate, explain how the research will contribute to economic and environmental development, gender equality and social inclusion (particularly of marginalised and disadvantaged groups).
8. Outputs/Deliverables
In no more than 50-100 words, explain the time-frame for the research and the expected final outputs or deliverables. These could include:
•academic outputs such as thesis, thesis articles for journals and conference presentations
•policy materials such as policy briefs
•publish in open access journals or pre-publication versions of the research
•deliver seminars/workshops on return.
9. Significance of the research to Potential Outcomes
In no more than 50-100 words, explain how the research can continue on return to your country and opportunities that already exist to continue the research.
10. Fieldwork and time-frame
In no more than 100-150 words, explain any fieldwork required and an indicative time-line to complete it. Provide an indication of costs involved in fieldwork.